Bikaner History, India

The state of Bikaner came into existence somewhere in 15th century and it remained as is till the independence of India. It was after the independence of India that Bikaner joined the Union of India. Before this, it enjoyed the status of princely state of India.

Before 15th century, the land, which is now known as Bikaner, was famous by the name of Jangladesh. The north eastern part of Rajasthan was famous by the name of Jangala Desh and this name wasn’t new. Rajasthan was known by this name since the age of Mahabharata. Above the Jats (who were ruling the area in those days) was the Delhi Sultanate.

During those days the complete region in and around Bikaner was possessed by around 7 cantons which were known by the name of Godara, Punia, Sihag, Saran, Johiya, Beniwal, and Kaswan.

Somewhere in the year of 1465, the Rajput ruler Rao Bika was hurt by the serious comment done by his father. This provoked him to leave the region and create his own kingdom. Rajwat Khandal, his uncle, accompanied him and provided him with necessary advice. This was when the rise of Rao Bika actually started.

By 1485, he had built his own fort named Rati Ghati and had his own territory which he ruled. It was the year of 1488 when Rao Bika seriously took part in the development of the city, which is today known as Bikaner.

As per one theory, the land chosen to be the capital of the ruling area of Rao Bika, was actually owned by Nehra Jat. He had kept a condition that he would willingly give away the land to the king only if the name if the capital included his own name. Rao Bika agreed to this and finally Bikaner (which was made up of King’s own name Bika and the name of Nehra Jat) was formed.

Later on, the Mughal conquered Bikaner and ruled the city for many years to come. Soon the state of Bikaner was named the princely state even when British had full control of India. Bikaner was made part of India in April 1949 when Maharaja Sadul Singh agreed to give away Bikaner to the newly formed Indian government.